USA Opens 2026 World Cup Campaign with 4-1 Victory Over Paraguay, Balogun Scores Twice

2026 FIFA World Cup Key News

Central News Agency Report

(Taipei, April 13 – CNA reporter Chen Jung-shen) The United States national soccer team opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign today with a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their home opener at Los Angeles.

The win was fueled by an early own goal from Paraguay’s Damián Bobadilla, followed by a brace from striker Folarin Balogun, securing a strong start for the host nation in the tournament.

In Group D, the U.S., led by star player Christian Pulisic, faces Paraguay, Turkey, and Australia. Their primary objective is to advance from the group stage and qualify for the knockout rounds.

Facing a competitive Paraguay side, the U.S. weathered early pressure and gradually took control of the match. Just seven minutes in, a well-executed cross led to a deflection off Bobadilla, resulting in an own goal that gave the U.S. an unexpected early lead.

The U.S. pushed forward again in the 28th minute when Balogun found the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside. However, just three minutes later, Balogun made no mistake, scoring a legitimate goal. Then, in first-half stoppage time, he completed his brace with a finish from a pass by teammate Malik Tillman, sending the U.S. into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.

In the second half, the U.S. substituted Pulisic but maintained dominance in possession and passing accuracy. Although substitute Mauricio pulled one back for Paraguay in the 73rd minute, Giovanni Reyna added a fourth goal late in the game to seal the 4-1 victory. The U.S. thus began their World Cup journey with a decisive win.

(Edited by Li Ming-tsung) 1150613

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